ABSTRACT
Systems of oppression create trauma that is often passed down through generations. Unlike shock traumas or developmental traumas, oppression is ongoing and so creates trauma in individual and collective bodies. Drawing on somatics, epigenetics, and the work of Resmaa Menakem, this chapter discusses the legacies of historical trauma for marginalized communities, which reveal that we cannot think our way to liberation. Instead, we need to heal from the violence of trauma. “Oppression, Trauma, and Healing” offers practices such as resourcing, centering, and orienting to help readers cultivate resilience. The chapter also discusses Healing Justice movements that integrate healing into liberation movements.
